My Point of Impact Story

Guest Post By James Ting

My Point of Impact Story

My Point of Impact Story: I experienced an interesting issue yesterday shooting at the range using the TORIC 4.5-30×56 scope.  While shooting at 100 yards using the scope on a 6.5 Creedmoor rifle, the point of impact jumped to the left about an inch for 2 consecutive shots without my changing any windage adjustments (see the photo below), and then later it jumped to the right about .7 inch for 2 shots without any adjustments.  Prior to these shots, the scope has run fine without issues. I received the rifle just a couple of weeks ago and have run about 60 rounds through it.  Typically, I shoot 0.3 to 0.5 inch groups at 100 yards, so this sort of jump in POI is immediately apparent.  I checked the scope mounts (Vortex precision mounts) and they’re at the correct tension.

My 200 Yard Target Showing Different POI (Points of Impact).

Rifle & Scope Set-up

Rifle: The Rifle is an Impact Precision Action

Barrel: Bartlein Barrel

Stock: Foundation Stock

Optic & Mounts: TORIC 4.5-30×56 MRAD ELR & Vortex Precision Mounts

Accessories: Tenebraex Tactical Tough Covers, TRACT Throw Lever and Bubble Level

Here’s my complete set-up at the Cherry Ridge Range in New Jersey.

Contacted TRACT

I immediately contacted Jon LaCorte. He said that that it appears that the Point of Impact in relation to my zero is right on with the first shot(s), but not the follow up shots. He explained that this is not typical of when a scope looses zero. This seems more typical when there is a change in the harmonics of the rifle or a change in the ammunition.

Possible Fixes

Jon asked me a few questions:

1. Is the barrel free floated? Any chance the barrel is making contact with the stock (especially as the barrel heats up between shots)
2. Are you using factory ammo or handloads?
3. What actual torque value did you use on the rings?

Problem Solved

Took advantage of the good weather yesterday and went to the range. I discovered that my previous accuracy issue has been resolved (see target photo below).  In addition to Jon’s suggestions, one possibility is the ammo I had been using.  The rifle shot well with Federal American Eagle 123g and Gold Medal 130g, about 1 inch groups at 200 yards. However, it did worse with Berger 153g, even though that’s a match grade ammo.   The TRACT scope worked flawlessly yesterday with over 40 rounds, so I’m super pleased with the result.

As you can see, my point of impact problem was solved. I’m super pleased with the result.

Thank You

I would personally like to thank Jon again for his quick and thoughtful replies to my issue.